Let's face it, not everyone can afford a house - and, more importantly, not everyone *wants* to buy a house.
You may be single, not interested in starting a family - or buying a flat might just suit your lifestyle.
And - on the plus side - as well as being less expensive, flats are considered to be safer than a house.
With lower maintenance costs, they often have the advantage of being decorated with better finishes too.
So what's the Hemel Hempstead market like at the moment?
Here's a selection of flats under £250,000 on the market in Hemel Hempstead on Zoopla.
And - on the plus side - as well as being less expensive, flats are considered to be safer than a house.
5. London Road, Hemel Hempstead - £239,500
This 2-bedroom top floor apartment has 100 years and no upper chain Photo: Harry Charles and Zoopla
6. Corner Hall, Hemel Hempstead - £230,000
Spacious one bedroom apartment with 993 years remaining on the lease Photo: Squire Estates and Zoopla
7. Midland Road, Hemel Hempstead - £220,000
This 1-bedroom apartment has allocated parking Photo: Imagine and Zoopla
8. Perry Green, Woodhall Farm - £215,000
This 2-bedroom first floor apartment has a re-fitted bathroom Photo: Flaggs and Zoopla